THE SUN, July 15th, 2002 -KUALA LUMPUR: Westport Malaysia has launched the Smart Card Security System (SCSS), a hi-tech security feature to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted flow of container traffic plying through the port.

Currently, import containers are cleared by forwarding agents and later delivered by hauliers using the gate pass and other relevant documents approved by the respective government agencies, Westport said in a statement on Saturday.The launching took place on Friday.

"The current workflow ensures that the paperwork goes through a stringent set of security processes. However; the person is not verified as the authorized person to handle the cargo," Westport said

The SCSS will scan and verify the authenticity throughout the chain prior to the port releasing the container.

The system comes with a dynamic built-in database with details of the forwarding companies, agents, haulage companies and even the individual truck drivers representing a particular haulage company.

Westport said forwarding companies are required to register their agents as well as the haulage companies with the respective drivers calling at Westport.

All necessary and relevant details both from the company and individuals will be illustrated on a master server and verified with a security card that is to given to that authorised personnel. As a result, only individuals nominated or authorised by the respective company will be allowed to clear and/or collect containers from the port for a particular consignee.

The underlying concept is to clear and/or collect containers, the forwarders and hauliers, for example must be known through the system by identification with the respective security card.